Outside the Park
Used to steamy tropical sites and temps suited for bath water, I found them by accident in the center of London just outside the park. Clustered tightly – a straight pin inserted between would definitely cause damage; the perfect balance of weight and whimsy, one of the most beautiful things I’ve seen, delicate, viscose like, enigmatic and literally turned upside down.
Ever hungry and on alert though you wouldn’t know it to watch them, and watch them I did, it’s what I do. Watch. I’m addicted to watching – people, animals, the wind through the trees. Break the spell to question what I’m thinking about, I can’t reply. It’s easiest to say I’m thinking of nothing and risk my inquisitor thinking I’m nuts, or just rude.
So on this day, with knees aching and thighs burning from crouching too long to gain the best vantage point, I watched as they drank in the light and sensuously moved their snow-white bodies slowly across the ebony field. I never saw them take a break, only dance an ethereal production.
Days later now and I can’t erase these images from my mind. Surrounded by people, some familiar, some strangers, noise, weather, traffic, all that ails the world, all that salves it and I am stuck – enamored with Casiopea Andromeda – upside down jellyfish.
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My favorite part of this post is the description of self and how you are absorbed by watching. I wish more people were so inquisitive, curious, thoughtful — enchanted by this world of wonders.
Oh Mark, you’ve just given me inspiration for a new post. Thanks!
Maria, Your clear expressions and descriptiveness are what launched me to London with you… now, if it were just that easy to truly be there at Regent’s Zoo, I’d take off right now to experience it first hand! Peace, Dan
Maria, What a nice story and great twist of words in the English language… touched by a bit of Latin I gather as well, Casiopea. My first exposure to such would be from the dark sky above, without ever realizing that it was true to its name for the jellyfish! Your blog here made me feel as though I was kneeling beside you, aching knees and all… bravo, bravo, encore! Really, Dan
Dan, it stops me in my tracks that my words transported you there, made you feel and see what I did. Thanks for telling me.
Btw, if you want the exact location of these little guys head to the London Zoo at Regent’s Park.
- For whatever reason they were not in the aquarium, but housed within the “bug” exhibit space.